Boot with Spur 1870 - 1890

Curator: Editor: This intriguing print from between 1870 and 1890, "Boot with Spur" credited to Challinor, Taylor and Company, presents a black and white image of a single, glossy boot. What strikes me is how such an everyday object is presented with such formality. What's your take on this? Curator: It's more than just an everyday object when considered within a Materialist frame. The choice of glass, its reflective quality, and the molded shape elevate a utilitarian item to something that speaks about industrial processes. Were these mass-produced or hand-crafted? The answer speaks to 19th century production methods and distribution of goods, no? Editor: I see your point! I hadn't really considered that. How would one determine if they were mass-produced versus handcrafted in this era? Curator: Examine the precision of the mold, and seek information about Challinor, Taylor, and Company's production capabilities. Were they known for artisanal work or mass-market items? Furthermore, we can question if this image captures the object "as it is" or is more concerned with depicting commodity fetishes and manufactured desire of this burgeoning industrial time? Editor: That is a whole other layer. It is quite different from simply showcasing the object itself, isn't it? The reflective material almost looks like a fetish object. Curator: Precisely. Considering the intended market also is vital. Is this object marketed towards working-class consumers or a more affluent class with aspirations tied to luxury and power symbolized by the equestrian imagery? Editor: So, considering the materiality and how it reflects societal structures and consumption, we can begin to piece together a comprehensive understanding of this work beyond just its visual appeal? Curator: Absolutely. The seemingly simple object offers insights into 19th-century manufacturing, distribution, and societal desires when considering materiality and consumption. Editor: Fascinating! This gives me so much more to consider beyond the surface.